President-Elect Trump Threatens "All Hell" If Hostages Remain Unreleased
President-elect Donald Trump has reiterated his previous threats, stating that "all hell will break out" if the hostages held in Gaza are not released by the time he takes office on January 20th. Trump made these remarks while speaking alongside Steve Witkoff, the special envoy to the Middle East who has been involved in cease-fire negotiations with the Biden administration, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and Hamas.
Trump was initially asked about his threats, which he first made in early December, directed at the Hamas terrorist organization that continues to hold approximately 96 hostages. Of these hostages, only 50 are believed to be alive, including three Americans.
"All hell will break out," Trump stated, adding, "If those hostages aren't back – I don't want to hurt your negotiation – if they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East." He made this statement in reference to Witkoff, who is currently leading cease-fire negotiations.
When pressed by a reporter to clarify his meaning, Trump responded, "Do I have to define it for you?" He then added, "I don't have to say any more, but that's what it is."
Witkoff, who is scheduled to travel to the Middle East on Tuesday or Wednesday, expressed optimism about the possibility of securing a cease-fire in the near future. He noted that there has been "some really great progress" in the negotiations and expressed hope that they will be able to "announce some good things on behalf of the president" by the time of the inauguration.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, the situation remains dire for the hostages. In addition to the roughly 50 individuals believed to be alive and in Hamas captivity, the terrorist group is also believed to be holding at least 38 who were killed while in captivity. Additionally, at least seven hostages are believed to have been killed on October 7th, 2023, and then taken into Gaza.
8 Comments
KittyKat
Didn't he learn anything from the Iraq War? Military action only leads to more death and destruction.
Noir Black
I'm confident that Trump will succeed in securing the hostages' release. He's a dealmaker, and he won't rest until they're safe.
KittyKat
The world needs to see that America won't be bullied. Trump's sending a powerful message with his tough stance.
Loubianka
The hostages' families need closure. Trump's doing what's necessary to bring them home, alive or dead.
KittyKat
Threatening violence is not the answer, Trump! This is just going to escalate the situation and put more innocent lives at risk.
Leonardo
So much for diplomacy. Trump's impulsiveness will only make things worse for the hostages.
Raphael
Trump's threats are undermining the ongoing negotiations and making it harder to secure the hostages' release.
Donatello
I'm proud to have a president who's willing to do what it takes to protect our citizens.